The 57-day-long Amarnath Yatra 2026 will remain suspended from both the traditional Pahalgam route and the Baltal route with effect from August 9 in view of recent rains, the need for repair and maintenance of vulnerable stretches along the tracks, and an adverse weather forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).&nbsp;The annual pilgrimage commenced on July 3 simultaneously from the Chandanwari track in Anantnag district and the Baltal route in Ganderbal district. The Yatra is scheduled to culminate with the traditional Chadi Mubarak ceremony on August 28.&nbsp;According to Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, more than 4.8 lakh pilgrims have so far performed darshan at the Holy Shrine.&nbsp;“More than 4.8 lakh pilgrims have performed darshan at the Holy Shrine so far. However, due to the recent rains, a necessity for the repair and maintenance of the Yatra tracks at vulnerable stretches has been felt, which is being undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO),” Garg said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delimitation-unity-bid-falters-as-majority-of-tamil-nadu-mps-skip-cm-vijay-s-meet-1786190772860">Delimitation unity bid falters as majority of Tamil Nadu MPs skip CM Vijay's meet</a>&nbsp;He added that adverse weather conditions have also been predicted by the IMD over the next few days. “Hence, the Yatra shall remain suspended from both routes with effect from 9th August, 2026,” he said.Despite the suspension of the regular pilgrimage, Chadi Mubarak will proceed through the traditional Pahalgam route and will mark the culmination of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 on August 28.&nbsp;The Divisional Commissioner appealed to all pilgrims to strictly follow advisories issued by the competent authorities from time to time, stressing that adherence to the guidelines is essential for their safety as well as for the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.&nbsp;The administration and concerned agencies are continuing necessary measures, including track repair and maintenance, to ensure the safety of pilgrims along vulnerable stretches of the Yatra routes.

The Amarnath pilgrimage will remain suspended from August 9 as authorities address rain-related disruptions, repair the yatra track and assess weather conditions before allowing the journey to resume.

The 57-day-long Amarnath Yatra 2026 will remain suspended from both the traditional Pahalgam route and the Baltal route with effect from August 9 in view of recent rains, the need for repair and maintenance of vulnerable stretches along the tracks, and an adverse weather forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The annual pilgrimage commenced on July 3 simultaneously from the Chandanwari track in Anantnag district and the Baltal route in Ganderbal district. The Yatra is scheduled to culminate with the traditional Chadi Mubarak ceremony on August 28. According to Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, more than 4.8 lakh pilgrims have so far performed darshan at the Holy Shrine. “More than 4.8 lakh pilgrims have performed darshan at the Holy Shrine so far. However, due to the recent rains, a necessity for the repair and maintenance of the Yatra tracks at vulnerable stretches has been felt, which is being undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO),” Garg said. Also Read: Delimitation unity bid falters as majority of Tamil Nadu MPs skip CM Vijay's meet He added that adverse weather conditions have also been predicted by the IMD over the next few days. “Hence, the Yatra shall remain suspended from both routes with effect from 9th August, 2026,” he said. Despite the suspension of the regular pilgrimage, Chadi Mubarak will proceed through the traditional Pahalgam route and will mark the culmination of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 on August 28. The Divisional Commissioner appealed to all pilgrims to strictly follow advisories issued by the competent authorities from time to time, stressing that adherence to the guidelines is essential for their safety as well as for the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. The administration and concerned agencies are continuing necessary measures, including track repair and maintenance, to ensure the safety of pilgrims along vulnerable stretches of the Yatra routes.

The Amarnath pilgrimage will remain suspended from August 9 as authorities address rain-related disruptions, repair the yatra track and assess weather conditions before allowing the journey to resume.

Amarnath Yatra suspended from August 9 amid rain, track repair and weather concerns

The annual Amarnath Yatra was suspended on Friday and the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was closed for traffic after continuous heavy rainfall triggered flash floods, landslides and rising water levels at several locations across Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;The decision to suspend the pilgrimage was taken as a precautionary measure following heavy rainfall in the Baltal sector and a sudden surge of water near the Holy Amarnath Cave. Intense showers caused a rapid rise in water levels, resulting in a low-intensity flash flood near the cave shrine. A video from the area showed a sudden surge of water, raising concerns among pilgrims and local authorities.&nbsp;Officials, however, confirmed that the situation near the cave has stabilized, with floodwaters receding after flowing down from the surrounding hills. No loss of life or damage to property has been reported, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/utmost-brutality-ex-aap-leader-tahir-hussain-4-others-get-life-term-for-ankit-sharma-s-murder-1785504258932">‘Utmost brutality’: Ex-AAP leader Tahir Hussain, 4 others get life term for Ankit Sharma’s murder</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was closed for vehicular movement after multiple landslides were reported along the route due to continuous rainfall over the past week. Restoration work is underway, and commuters have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel until the highway is declared safe for traffic.&nbsp;Heavy rainfall also triggered flash floods in Sopore's Brennaar Nallah during the early hours today, threatening several residential areas.&nbsp; Several houses came under threat as floodwaters entered nearby localities.&nbsp;The weather department has issued a fresh warning of heavy to torrential rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Jammu division, between July 31 and August 2. Authorities have cautioned that intense showers may trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides, especially in vulnerable areas, and have advised pilgrims, tourists, travellers and transporters to remain vigilant and strictly follow official advisories.&nbsp;Authorities have urged the public to stay away from flood-prone areas, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall, and follow weather advisories as the wet spell continues across the Union Territory.&nbsp;

Officials, however, confirmed that the situation near the cave has stabilized, with floodwaters receding after flowing down from the surrounding hills.

The annual Amarnath Yatra was suspended on Friday and the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was closed for traffic after continuous heavy rainfall triggered flash floods, landslides and rising water levels at several locations across Jammu and Kashmir. The decision to suspend the pilgrimage was taken as a precautionary measure following heavy rainfall in the Baltal sector and a sudden surge of water near the Holy Amarnath Cave. Intense showers caused a rapid rise in water levels, resulting in a low-intensity flash flood near the cave shrine. A video from the area showed a sudden surge of water, raising concerns among pilgrims and local authorities. Officials, however, confirmed that the situation near the cave has stabilized, with floodwaters receding after flowing down from the surrounding hills. No loss of life or damage to property has been reported, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. ALSO READ: ‘Utmost brutality’: Ex-AAP leader Tahir Hussain, 4 others get life term for Ankit Sharma’s murder Meanwhile, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was closed for vehicular movement after multiple landslides were reported along the route due to continuous rainfall over the past week. Restoration work is underway, and commuters have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel until the highway is declared safe for traffic. Heavy rainfall also triggered flash floods in Sopore's Brennaar Nallah during the early hours today, threatening several residential areas. Several houses came under threat as floodwaters entered nearby localities. The weather department has issued a fresh warning of heavy to torrential rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Jammu division, between July 31 and August 2. Authorities have cautioned that intense showers may trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides, especially in vulnerable areas, and have advised pilgrims, tourists, travellers and transporters to remain vigilant and strictly follow official advisories. Authorities have urged the public to stay away from flood-prone areas, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall, and follow weather advisories as the wet spell continues across the Union Territory.

Officials, however, confirmed that the situation near the cave has stabilized, with floodwaters receding after flowing down from the surrounding hills.

Rain fury grips J&K: Amarnath Yatra suspended, national highway closed

The annual Amarnath Yatra has achieved a historic milestone, with more than three lakh devotees performing darshan at the holy cave shrine within the first 12 days of the 57-day pilgrimage, marking the fastest pace in the Yatra's history. According to official figures, pilgrim arrivals have increased by 37 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year, reflecting strong public participation despite the early melting of the naturally formed ice Shivling, revered as Baba Barfani.&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha congratulated officials, security personnel, service providers and volunteers for ensuring the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. In a post on X, he described the achievement as a "historic new record" and credited the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders for making the Yatra safe, seamless and memorable for devotees.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amarnath-ice-lingam-has-melted-by-over-90-per-cent-just-5-days-into-the-yatra-know-in-detail-1783682691998">Amarnath ice lingam has melted by over 90 per cent just 5 days into the yatra? Know in detail</a>

Officials attributed the record turnout to the elaborate arrangements made by the Amarnath Shrine Board and security agencies, which have ensured the smooth movement of pilgrims along both the Baltal and Pahalgam routes. They said devotees' faith has remained unwavering despite the early melting of the ice formation, with thousands continuing to visit the holy cave every day.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-scare-in-india-after-2-deaths-in-andhra-pradesh-odisha-on-alert-ahead-of-rath-yatra-tn-says-no-need-to-fear-1783999949413">COVID-19 scare in India after 2 deaths in Andhra Pradesh: Odisha on alert ahead of Rath Yatra, TN says no need to fear</a>&nbsp;"It is a very encouraging development. More and more pilgrims are arriving every day, reflecting the deep faith people have in Baba Barfani. With the holy month of Sawan approaching, I am confident that the number of devotees will increase even further. Although the naturally formed ice Shivling has melted due to the effects of global warming, the spiritual presence of Baba remains at the holy cave. That unwavering faith is why devotees will continue to visit in large numbers," said pilgrim Pinky Lakhara.&nbsp;Authorities said daily pilgrim arrivals have consistently remained between 15,000 and 20,000, indicating sustained participation since the Yatra began.Meanwhile, the 14th batch of pilgrims, comprising 6,251 devotees, left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu on wednesday for the twin base camps of Baltal and Pahalgam. Of them, 2,985 pilgrims opted for the shorter Baltal route, while 3,266 chose the traditional Pahalgam route. The convoy comprised 230 vehicles, including 137 buses, 34 medium motor vehicles and 59 light motor vehicles.&nbsp;Officials said the batch included 4,439 men, 1,614 women, 13 children, 78 sadhus, 53 sadhvis, one child sadhu, three transgender pilgrims and 50 foreign male pilgrims. "It is wonderful to see that so many pilgrims have visited the holy cave in the first 12 days of the Yatra. There is a strong security presence everywhere, and we have felt completely safe throughout our journey. We did not face any difficulties, and the arrangements have been excellent. Although the ice Shivling has melted due to global warming, our faith in Baba Barfani remains unwavering. It is this deep devotion that will continue to bring pilgrims here," said pilgrim Hardik Goswami.&nbsp;Advance registrations for the pilgrimage have already crossed the four-lakh mark, with registrations continuing across the country. Despite challenges posed by weather conditions, melting snow and the rush for on-the-spot and Tatkal registrations, officials said the pilgrimage has continued without disruption.The Amarnath Yatra, which began earlier this month, will conclude on August 28, coinciding with the festival of Raksha Bandhan.

Over 2.35 lakh devotees have visited the Amarnath cave shrine so far, with daily pilgrim arrivals remaining between 15,000 and 20,000. Officials credited robust security and arrangements for the record turnout, while devotees said their faith in Baba Barfani remains strong 

The annual Amarnath Yatra has achieved a historic milestone, with more than three lakh devotees performing darshan at the holy cave shrine within the first 12 days of the 57-day pilgrimage, marking the fastest pace in the Yatra's history. According to official figures, pilgrim arrivals have increased by 37 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year, reflecting strong public participation despite the early melting of the naturally formed ice Shivling, revered as Baba Barfani. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha congratulated officials, security personnel, service providers and volunteers for ensuring the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. In a post on X, he described the achievement as a "historic new record" and credited the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders for making the Yatra safe, seamless and memorable for devotees. Also Read: Amarnath ice lingam has melted by over 90 per cent just 5 days into the yatra? Know in detail

Over 2.35 lakh devotees have visited the Amarnath cave shrine so far, with daily pilgrim arrivals remaining between 15,000 and 20,000. Officials credited robust security and arrangements for the record turnout, while devotees said their faith in Baba Barfani remains strong&nbsp;

Amarnath Yatra breaks records, draws over 3 lakh devotees in 12 days

The Amarnath Yatra 2026 began from the twin base camps of Pahalgam and Baltal on July 3 amid extensive security measures. Over 10,000 pilgrims were expected to undertake the Baltal route for darshan. Simultaneously, around 10,000 pilgrims were allowed to proceed via the traditional 42-kilometre Pahalgam route.&nbsp;So far the Yatra to the Amarnath cave shrine, the naturally formed ice lingam, also called the Baba Barfani has drawn huge response but there is one thing that is bothering everybody, the ice lingam according to various media reports has melted by over 90 per cent.&nbsp;While some reports say that the ice lingam has almost disappeared as the 57-day Yatra has just started.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-death-to-come-on-my-own-soil-sheikh-hasina-party-leaders-to-return-surrender-in-december-1783679799431">‘Want death to come on my own soil’: Sheikh Hasina says will return, surrender in December</a>&nbsp;Though, there is no official word on it, social media is also abuzz with claims that the Amarnath ice lingam located at an altitude of about 3,888 metres (12,756 feet) shrunk just days into the pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;People's Democratic Party (PDF) leader, Iltija Mufti also made these claims by sharing images of the shrinking lingam. Sharing the image on X she questioned the management of the pilgrimage and raised concerns over the environmental impact on the cave shrine.&nbsp;“Only a week into Amarnath Yatra, and the naturally formed lingam has already melted. Climate change from mindlessly axing trees, illegal mining, waste mismanagement &amp; dangerous depletion of water levels are major factors. Unfortunately, the environment has become a casualty in Kashmir’s politics. It has NO power currency,” Mufti wrote.&nbsp;Mufti's claims come amid authorities saying that there has been a sharp rise in pilgrim turnout after last year's Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.<h2>What's the cause behind the melting ice lingam</h2>&nbsp;Some blame the rapid shrinking of lingam which is a seasonal ice stalagmite that waxes and wanes with the cave's temperature and weather conditions, on expanding infrastructure inside the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.&nbsp;Climate change is another factor that analysts say may be the reason for the rapid melting of the lingam. Also the rising number of pilgrims is being cited amongst major reasons.&nbsp;According to a report in the Hindu newspaper, more than 32,000 devotees had offered prayers by July 5, while over 20,000 pilgrims visited the shrine on the second day of the Yatra alone. This is way higher than the normal footfall that the shrine witnesses every year, said Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also heads the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB).&nbsp;

So far the Yatra to the Amarnath cave shrine, the naturally formed ice lingam, also called the Baba Barfani has drawn huge response after last years Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.

The Amarnath Yatra 2026 began from the twin base camps of Pahalgam and Baltal on July 3 amid extensive security measures. Over 10,000 pilgrims were expected to undertake the Baltal route for darshan. Simultaneously, around 10,000 pilgrims were allowed to proceed via the traditional 42-kilometre Pahalgam route. So far the Yatra to the Amarnath cave shrine, the naturally formed ice lingam, also called the Baba Barfani has drawn huge response but there is one thing that is bothering everybody, the ice lingam according to various media reports has melted by over 90 per cent. While some reports say that the ice lingam has almost disappeared as the 57-day Yatra has just started. ALSO READ: ‘Want death to come on my own soil’: Sheikh Hasina says will return, surrender in December Though, there is no official word on it, social media is also abuzz with claims that the Amarnath ice lingam located at an altitude of about 3,888 metres (12,756 feet) shrunk just days into the pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir. People's Democratic Party (PDF) leader, Iltija Mufti also made these claims by sharing images of the shrinking lingam. Sharing the image on X she questioned the management of the pilgrimage and raised concerns over the environmental impact on the cave shrine. “Only a week into Amarnath Yatra, and the naturally formed lingam has already melted. Climate change from mindlessly axing trees, illegal mining, waste mismanagement & dangerous depletion of water levels are major factors. Unfortunately, the environment has become a casualty in Kashmir’s politics. It has NO power currency,” Mufti wrote. Mufti's claims come amid authorities saying that there has been a sharp rise in pilgrim turnout after last year's Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. What's the cause behind the melting ice lingam Some blame the rapid shrinking of lingam which is a seasonal ice stalagmite that waxes and wanes with the cave's temperature and weather conditions, on expanding infrastructure inside the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Climate change is another factor that analysts say may be the reason for the rapid melting of the lingam. Also the rising number of pilgrims is being cited amongst major reasons. According to a report in the Hindu newspaper, more than 32,000 devotees had offered prayers by July 5, while over 20,000 pilgrims visited the shrine on the second day of the Yatra alone. This is way higher than the normal footfall that the shrine witnesses every year, said Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also heads the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB).

So far the Yatra to the Amarnath cave shrine, the naturally formed ice lingam, also called the Baba Barfani has drawn huge response after last year's Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.

Amarnath ice lingam has melted by over 90 per cent just 5 days into the yatra? Know in detail